Who Should Apply for Subclass 190?

The Subclass 190 offers a more accessible pathway to PR with +5 bonus points. Find out if state nomination is the right strategy for your Australian migration goals.

? Ideal Candidates

1. Mid-Range Points Scorers (60-80 Points)

Perfect Match: If you have 60-75 base points, the 190's +5 bonus brings you to a competitive 65-80 total points - much more achievable than waiting for a 189 invitation!

You're a great fit if you have:

  • Age 25-39 (good age points)
  • Proficient English (IELTS 7+ or equivalent)
  • Bachelor's degree or higher
  • 3-7 years skilled work experience
  • Base score of 60-75 points

2. Open to State Commitment

Choose Subclass 190 if you're willing to:

  • Live and work in a specific state initially (typically 2 years)
  • Make genuine attempts to settle in that state
  • Build your life in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, or Adelaide
  • Accept the moral commitment (not legally enforced)
Reality: Many 190 holders stay in their nominating state long-term because they build careers, buy homes, and create communities there. It's not a burden - it's an opportunity!

3. Occupations on State Lists

Your chances are excellent if your occupation is:

  • On state nomination lists: Often broader than MLTSSL
  • In demand regionally: Check each state's priority lists
  • Healthcare or education: Almost all states need these
  • Trades and construction: High demand in growing states

4. Faster PR Seekers

Perfect for you if you:

  • Want to get PR sooner rather than later
  • Don't want to wait years for 189 invitation
  • Are willing to be strategic about location
  • Value speed over location flexibility

5. Not in Major Metro Areas Yet

Ideal if you:

  • Haven't established roots in a specific city
  • Are flexible about which Australian city to live in
  • See value in exploring different Australian states
  • Want to avoid the highest cost of living areas

?? Who Should Consider Alternatives?

Very High Points Score (85+)

If you have 85+ base points, consider:

  • Subclass 189: You're likely competitive enough for independent visa
  • 190 anyway: Still faster invitations and lower competition
  • Your choice: You can qualify for both - choose based on location preferences

Committed to Specific Major City

If you must live in a specific city:

  • Apply for that state's 190 nomination (if they're nominating)
  • Be aware some states (like NSW) rarely nominate for Sydney
  • Consider 189 if you want complete freedom
  • Look into employer sponsorship for guaranteed city choice

Lower Points (Below 60)

If your base score is below 60:

  • Subclass 491: Get 15 bonus points instead of 5
  • Improve your points: English, experience, partner skills
  • Employer sponsorship: No points test required

Want Complete Independence

If state commitment concerns you:

  • Work on improving points for 189
  • Understand that 190's commitment is moral, not legal
  • Remember you get full PR immediately with freedom after initial period

?? Self-Assessment Questions

Ask yourself these questions:

  1. Do I have 60-75 base points? (Check with calculator)
  2. Is my occupation on state nomination lists?
  3. Am I under 45 years old?
  4. Am I willing to commit to a state initially?
  5. Do I want permanent residence sooner?
  6. Am I flexible about which city to live in?
  7. Do I value faster processing over complete independence?
  8. Can I afford state nomination fees (~AUD $200-330) plus visa costs?

If you answered YES to most questions, Subclass 190 is likely your best pathway!

Comparing Your Options

Your Situation Best Visa Why
60-75 base points 190 +5 bonus makes you competitive
85+ base points 189 or 190 Your choice based on preferences
50-60 base points 491 Need +15 regional bonus
Open to any location 190 Faster, less competitive
Must live in Sydney CBD 189 or TSS 190 rarely nominates for Sydney
Want PR quickly 190 More invitation rounds

?? Strengthening Your 190 Application

To maximize your chances of state nomination:

Boost Your Base Points

  • Improve English: Superior English = +10 extra points
  • Gain experience: More years = more points
  • Partner skills: Qualified partner = +10 points
  • Higher education: Master's or PhD = more points

Target the Right States

  • Research which states are actively nominating your occupation
  • Consider less popular states (SA, Tasmania) with lower competition
  • Check if you meet state-specific requirements (work experience, English)
  • Look for states offering priority processing

Build State Connections

  • Work experience in that state (huge advantage)
  • Job offer from state employer (often required or beneficial)
  • Family connections in the state
  • Previous study in the state

Success Profile Example

Meet Kumar - Successful 190 Applicant

  • Age: 32 years (25 points)
  • English: PTE 79 all sections (20 points)
  • Education: Bachelor's degree (15 points)
  • Work Experience: 5 years overseas (10 points)
  • Base Total: 70 points
  • State Nomination: +5 points
  • Final Total: 75 points
  • State: South Australia
  • Occupation: Accountant
  • Timeline: Nominated in 6 weeks, invited in 2 months

Ready to Proceed?

If the Subclass 190 fits your profile, let's learn how the two-step process works with state nomination!